This was my first time participating in any sort of charity event and it was an INCREDIBLE experience. Being the nomad that I am, it’s hard to be anywhere long enough to do these kind of things or even get the chance to connect with like-minded individuals. Not only was I supporting an important cause, but I was doing it with an amazing group of people.
"Club Us" wasn’t an organization or a company or a non-profit, they were just a group of friends who banded together to commemorate the memory of one of their own and in honoring his memory, do everything they could to help prevent that same kind of loss for others. 65 wonderful people raised $56,000 dollars, an impressive amount on any day, but especially so in the current economic climate.
Standing up on that stage and looking out to see so many people fighting the good fight filled me with a sense of pride and togetherness unlike anything I’ve felt before. Thousands of people—each carrying their own story leading them to this day—united and supporting each other for a common cause.
When I first spoke about the AIDS Walk back in February, I mentioned Tim Yocom as the catalyst for "Club Us". Due to the amazing efforts of our team, the Aids Healthcare Foundation gave "Club Us" a plaque commemorating our efforts and in memoriam of Tim Yocom. Our team captain, a good friend of Tim’s, was in tears when he heard this announced to the entire Walk. It was a beautiful moment.
We were also given the privilege of leading the Walk. 10 km with good weather and a great group of friends, I couldn’t think of a better way to spend my Sunday. Tired (and starving) by the end, I was filled with an electric buzz from the joy and hope of everyone involved.
I want to thank all my friends and family who donated to the AIDS Walk and helped with this worthy cause. Your support meant the world to me.
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{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Holy cow – I just saw how much you guys raised. Great work! No wonder you feel so good – that’s really going to make an impact.
Gabe, you and Raquel shine such a bright line in this world. Your great energy and kind hearts add such joy to our lives. We were thrilled to have you join Club Us and flattered that you have joined our lives. Thank you for sharing your experience with the world. Sending you heaps of love… Don & Roger
Congrats, Gabriel. That’s really good stuff.
This was the best thing this year so far. You know I have always wanted to be a part of something like this. What made me even happier was to have done this “first time” with you. To have you by my side at this was not only an honor, but a true blessing. Thank you Gabriel for being there. Congrats on the money you raised, the walk you finished, and the amazing support you have done.
I love you mi bebe.